The Progressive Democrat Newsletter grew out of the frustration of the 2004 election. Originally intended for New York City progressives, its readership is now national. For anyone who wants to be alerted by email whenever this newsletter is updated (usually weekly), please send your email address and let me know what state you live in (so I can keep track of my readership).

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Native Vote Oklahoma

Native Vote, is a nation wide resource for encouraging voter turn out in Indian Country. Organized by the National Congress of American Indians, get out the vote efforts in Indian Country have been supported by NCAI since 1955.

What it's all about (an example from New Mexico):

What you can do in your state:

The state of Oklahoma has a substantial American Indian and Alaska Native population. They make up 11.36% of the state’s overall population, and 9.77% of people who are 18 and over. Traditionally, the Republican party has dominated the state’s elections. Senator Thomas Coburn (R) is seeking reelection, but his seat is considered safe by national polls.

There are five congressional districts in Oklahoma with significant populations of American Indian and Alaska Native voters. Some of these populations account for over 20% of a district’s population, such as Oklahoma's 2nd congressional district. Interestingly, this is the only district that is currently being represented by a member of the Democratic party, Congressman Dan Boren (D). The 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th congressional districts are represented by Sullivan (R), Lucas (R), Cole (R), and Fallin (R), respectively. These congressional seats are considered safe.